Matrix Renewables, a renewable energy platform backed by TPG, has signed a long-term agreement with EDF to optimise a 500 MW / 1 GWh battery energy storage system (BESS) currently under construction in Eccles, near Edinburgh, Scotland.
Under the agreement, EDF will provide route-to-market services and optimise battery operations across UK energy markets once the asset becomes operational.
The project is expected to reach commercial operation in summer 2027 and will be Matrix Renewables" first standalone battery storage project in the UK, as well as one of the largest connected to the British power system.
Strategically located in Eccles along key transmission corridors between Scotland and England, the BESS will play a critical role in strengthening grid infrastructure and enabling efficient electricity flows across Great Britain.
By storing excess renewable energy and dispatching it during peak demand periods, the project will support greater renewable energy integration and improve system reliability.
The initiative forms part of Matrix Renewables" broader strategy to expand its battery storage portfolio and accelerate the UK"s transition towards a more flexible and low-carbon energy system, directly contributing to Net Zero 2050 and Clean Power 2035 objectives.
Chris Matthews, Chief Commercial Officer at Matrix Renewables, stated: "We are proud to lead one of the UK"s largest battery storage projects and to partner with EDF for its commercial optimisation. Energy storage will play a pivotal role in enabling and accelerating the continued growth of renewable energy, while strengthening grid resilience and flexibility.
Stuart Fenner, Managing Director of Wholesale Market Services at EDF, added: "Delivering EDF"s vision of an Electric Britain" depends on flexible assets capable of responding instantly to system needs.
This project will provide exactly that capability.
SThrough our Powershift platform, we will optimise the battery in real time to support grid stability, manage demand peaks and enable higher penetration of low-carbon energy.
The Eccles project has met all planning conditions and secured the necessary permits, allowing construction to progress as scheduled.
Matrix Renewables continues to actively expand its UK pipeline of renewable generation and battery storage projects, with plans to develop more than 3 GW of capacity in the coming years.
EDF currently operates five nuclear power stations, more than 35 onshore wind farms and three offshore wind farms in the UK.
Since 2009, the company has invested nearly £9 billion in its nuclear fleet to enhance reliability and extend plant lifespans.
These five facilities currently supply around 12% of the UK"s electricity demand.
Additionally, EDF is one of the UK"s leading renewable energy developers through EDF Power Solutions UK & Ireland.
The company has over 2 GW of renewable capacity in operation and more than 10 GW under construction, planning and development, spanning technologies such as onshore and offshore wind, solar PV and battery energy storage.